Hospital Bag Must-Haves

When expecting a baby, a million things go through your mind. From your labor plan to how in the world you're going to push a baby out, things get overwhelming quickly. One thing that I put off for way too long last time, and ending up throwing together last minute, was my hospital bag.

It didn't really dawn on me that I was going to be away from home for several days and need things for not only me, but my baby as well. I was so focused on getting Henry here safely and meeting him, I didn't think about the things I would want or need. While the hospital does provide many of the items that you'll need (and don't forget to take what you can when you leave!), I found myself wanting some of my comforts from home.

Hopefully the following lists help you to feel a little more prepared for not only your hospital stay, but having your baby and bringing that sweet little bundle home as well.

1. A large bag to carry everything. This time, I don't want to have to deal with a clunky suitcase, especially since hospital rooms can get crowded, quickly. I have an old tote from Victoria's Secret that will hold everything and be easier to stick in the corner when I don't need it. 

2. Sleep Mask. I'm a very light sleeper, and sleep is tough enough to come by when in the hospital. It never seems to get completely dark, so this time I'm hoping a sleep mask will help me to tune things out and actually get some rest. This one came from H&M, but you can find some adorable ones on Etsy!

3. Going Home Outfit. I didn't put much thought into this last time and ended up just throwing some old sweats and a cover-up into the bag. Well, the clothes didn't fit great, nor did they look too beautiful in our pictures when leaving the hospital. While I really wasn't that concerned with how I looked (I was just more excited to get little man home), I would like something that actually fit and was comfy this time around! I decided to go with my beloved yoga pants, tank top, and big comfy sweater. You can find a similar sweater at Old Navy. 

4. Nursing Bra. If you plan on breastfeeding, you will definitely want a nursing bra, or a bra that hooks in the front. Nursing can be a very stressful part of those first few days, and having to lift up your shirt and bra will inevitably just get in the way. Both of these bras are from Target, which is where I've gotten every nursing bra that I own. I would highly recommend avoiding underwire, as it's just uncomfortable and annoying when trying to rest (in my opinion, at least!). 

5. Button-up nightgown or pajamas. This goes along with the nursing bra. Having button-up pajamas or a nightgown will really help you be able to nurse as comfortably and conveniently as possible. I've opted to go with a nightgown, as not wearing pants is preferable to me!

6. High-waisted briefs... AKA granny panties. Since I know I'll need a C-section, high-waisted briefs are a must. Even if you'll deliver the old fashioned way, you'll be so glad you brought some comfy undies. Between the pads you'll need and just being uncomfortable, anything lacy or too tight will just be obnoxious. 

7. Long Robe. When walking around during contractions, getting up to use the restroom, or having visitors over to see your new little one, a robe is definitely a must-have for me. It helps cover-up anything you don't want seen in those opened-back hospital gowns, and helps you to feel a little more comfortable. Hospitals can get freezing as well, so the extra layer doesn't hurt. I'm kind of obsessed with this plush robe from Lord and Taylor. 

8. Slippers. I can't express enough how important or how much I loved my slippers during my stay at the hospital. Before I had Henry, I was up walking a bunch to try and get labor going. Once I had him, I was walking around to stretch a bit or use the bathroom. After I have my C-section this time, I'll need to be up walking right away. Slippers are so great to have because they're not only comfy, they are a great alternative to regular shoes and shield you from the always-freezing hospital floors. I found these Kate Spade beauties at TJ awhile ago, but you can find some similar ones here. 

1. Body Wash. The hospital will most likely provide you with a small bottle but for me, I'd much rather have my own.

2. Dry Shampoo. LIFESAVER. The first couple of days, I admittedly did not shower. I was so exhausted from labor and all of the company that I didn't get out of bed much more than I needed to. While I plan on showering this time around, I most likely won't wash my hair (it's so thick & curly, nobodys got time to deal with that). Dry shampoo is a must-have so that I'm not completely gross and greasy lookin.

3. Hand mirror. I didn't intentionally pack this last time, but was so grateful when I realized I had it in my purse. While it was great having visitors, I wanted to try and be semi-presentable when they arrived. It was nice to be able to throw on some mascara while still in the hospital bed using my hand mirror.

4. Large makeup bag. I can definitely get a little OCD with packing, so grabbing a larger makeup bag that could fit not only my essential makeup products but all of my cosmetics together was really helpful. Not being at home meant carrying a bag back and forth to the bathroom and it was nice to have everything together.

5. Charger. Even though I got induced with Henry and didn't have the "holy crap, my water broke, let's rush to the hospital" moment, I still forgot things. One of those things was my charger, which I had to ask my parents to grab on the way to the hospital. This time, I plan on having my extra charger already packed and ready to go.

6. Ipad/Book/Something to do. One thing I didn't expect was how much down time I had. We showed up at the hospital to get induced at 6 AM, and I didn't have him until 11 AM the next day. Between getting up to walk or visiting with family/friends, I still had a lot of down time just waitin for the action to begin. My Ipad and my absolute favorite book- Pride and Prejudice- will help to pass the time.

7. Snacks. Once in active labor I wasn't allowed to eat anymore, but before I got induced, I realized I was starving and had no quarters for the vending machine. I would definitely recommend bringing something to munch on (my husband was starving too) or some quarters to grab some snacks.

8. Chap stick. Nothing wears you out like labor, and right after, I immediately realized how dehydrated and therefore, chapped, my lips felt. Thank goodness I have amazing friends who just gave me theirs but this time, I plan to be fully prepared.

9. Toothbrush and Toothpaste. Since some of these items, such as your toothbrush and toothpaste, are things that you need on a daily basis and don't necessarily want to pack away, I bought some travel-sized items I could pack ahead of time. Walmart and Target both have sections with toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash, etc. in miniature bottles that work perfectly for a few day hospital stay.

10. A Razor. I forgot to bring one last time and I could not wait to get home and shave my underarms. I just felt gross after laying in bed all day, and this time I know I will appreciate having all my own toiletries and being able to feel human again.

11. Mascara. Right after having Henry, I couldn't have cared less what I looked like. I was so amazed by how little he was, and how good he smelled, and everything else that when I finally looked in the mirror, I was appalled. While I doubt I'll be putting on a full face of makeup, I will definitely be glad to have my mascara and look a little like myself when visitors come.

1. Beanies/Hats. Little ones get cold so easily, that you'll want to make sure you've got a hat, especially to bring them home in. Your hospital will probably provide them for you, but they won't be near as cute as these little floral ones from Carters.

2. A Coat. If you're having a winter baby like I am, a coat would definitely be a good idea. Your little one has been so warm and cozy up until now, that you'll want to protect them as best as you can from the cold weather. I probably worry too much, but I figure you can never have enough fuzzy clothing :)

3. Socks. In line with the coat, socks will just keep your little one's feet warm. There is nothing cuter to me than little baby toes, and while I hate covering them up, cute socks are a good alternative!

4. Newborn Car Seat. This one is a must-have, as the hospital won't let you leave without it. We are just re-using Henry's seat for little girl, since he's outgrown it. Naturally, I have to have a cute carseat cover to make it girly! Etsy has some great options, or if you sew, you can find patterns on Pinterest also.

5. Warm Blanket. This will be great when taking baby home. If it's too chilly or windy, a warm blanket is great to drape over the carseat to protect them from not only the cold, but the bright sun as well.

6. Going Home Outfit. I cannot resist a cute pun on a onesie, or some sparkle for that matter. I absolutely fell in love when I saw this onesie from Viva La Glitter and decided it would make the perfect going home outfit for Charlotte. I'm going to pair it with some cute leggings, socks, and a hat and she will be good to go!


// Miscellaneous Items //

There are several other things I thought I would mention, that either aren't necessarily beautiful or are just the basics that you may forget. These include:

-Deodorant

-Tucks Pads. You will probably receive some of these from the hospital, but it's always nice to have your own on hand. You will also have them ready for when you get home and trust me, they are awesome.

-Regular Pads. The hospital pads I was provided with were giant. I mean, bigger than Henry's diapers, giant. While you do need pads, I just bought some regular heavy pads from the store which were so much more comfortable.

-Your important information, such as your driver's license, insurance info, etc.

-Your own pillows, and maybe a blanket.

-Nipple Cream. Getting Henry to latch was very difficult, and while they did supply me with some nipple cream, it didn't work as well as the Lansinoh cream I bought myself.


And that's all I've got for now! If anyone has any other suggestions or things I may have missed, please feel free to mention!

Leggings & Pumpkin Spice

Top knots, leggings, cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, changing leaves.. just a few of the reasons that I absolutely love fall. The weather has finally dropped around here and it's amazing (and so is the fact that a lot of my non-maternity clothes still fit). Also, I'm completely obsessed with how cute little man looks in his stretchy leggings and jackets! It's too adorable. Although, he is really not a fan of the socks (but I definitely get a kick out of him sliding around.. rude, I know).

I also started decorating the place for fall awhile ago (earlier than Carl really cared for) and I've slowly been sneaking in new decor as well. I bought a chalkboard to put on our mantel and I've already planned out designs for every holiday I can think of! And.. a sparkly pumpkin? I had to.

The pillow came from my momma, and is something that you can easily re-create at home! She found the blingy "Boo" decal from Hobby Lobby (similar one here), put it on a strip of fabric, and found the other two coordinating fabrics to go with. Just sew the strips together, cut another for the back, throw in some stuffing, and voila! An adorable Halloween pillow.

I'm also really excited to try out this recipe I found for apple cider donuts. A donut (or three) with a pumpkin spice latte sounds about as close to heaven as I can get in the mornings.

Oh yeah- there is some very exciting news in the Staas household that I hadn't shared yet- little man is a walkin machine! He just took off one day and hasn't stopped since. He looks like a little drunk guy wobblin all around and I just love it. He gets so happy and proud of himself and momma couldn't be prouder either.

Lately, I've spent some time (more than I care to admit) browsing through Instagram profiles I've found of other mommas running their own businesses and let me tell ya- I've become so inspired. I really want to take some more time to focus on my blog and the Etsy shop, and some inspiration is just what I needed to kick my butt into gear.

One profile that I'm absolutely in love with is Knot Unraveled. Not only are her cup cozies the cutest I think I've ever seen, but she's got an amazing story & cause behind what she does. Definitely buying up some cozies here very shortly. I think the only thing better than a pumpkin spice latte is a PSL with a blingy pumpkin cozy :)

I also think I have to have WeeStructed "I breed NON Sleepers" mug, because with how little Henry naps, it pretty much sums up my life.


Please share if you have any other small businesses or shops with handmade goods, I love supporting other small businesses and working mommas out there!

Bed Rest Blues

After multiple trips to the ER, resulting in a 3 day stay on the last visit, we've finally gotten some peace of mind and a hold on what's going on! We found out that I have complete placenta previa, which can be a very serious condition, especially if not monitored and taken seriously. I've been put on bed rest, and let me tell ya, I'm already not a fan.

It's hard enough to keep myself entertained, but having an almost-one year old that you're not supposed to lift or chase around is no piece of cake. Thankfully, I am allowed to get up every once in awhile for short periods of time, so I think we'll be okay! The goal is to keep me rested, off my feet, and to keep baby girl in there as long as possible. I'm officially 28 weeks, which is quite a bit sooner than we'd prefer for her to arrive. We'd like to get me to 36 weeks (although it'll probably be sooner) and will definitely be a C-section.

Any other mamas out there have experience with high-risk pregnancies, or being on bed rest? It definitely came as a shock, and while I feel so much better now that me and baby are healthy and stable for the time being, it's still a bit overwhelming. Thankfully I've had amazing family and friends visit and offer help, so I know we can make it :)

In the week I've been in the hospital/on bed rest, I've been trying to come up with some ways to occupy myself and make this as enjoyable as possible. Here are a few tips that have taken the edge off a bit:

Grey Knitted Cardigan // Gold Metallic Family Planner // Slippers // "Boo" Sweatshirt

1. Still pamper and try to feel good about yourself. It might sound silly, and I'll admit my initial thought was, "Heck ya, I'm wearin a messy bun and no makeup every day", but that has really done more harm than good. Eventually, you will feel like the smelly homeless person that took up residence on your couch, which won't do anything for your mood on the daily. Just putting on a cute (yet still comfy) top, some mascara, & painting my nails has made a world of difference.

2. Invest in a planner. I've had my weekly planner from Plum Paper Designs for awhile now, and I am completely obsessed with it. I continuously buy different washi tape, stickers, & metallic pens to make it even more fun and a great creative outlet. Even though I'm stuck in bed, life still goes on, and a planner is a great way to keep track of Carl's work schedule, Dr. appointments, birthdays, etc.

3. Take up a new hobby. I once took a very short-lived excursion into the world of crocheting, which admittedly, I quickly gave up. However, I did really enjoy the small amount of time that I did spend and I would love to try and create something more than a 4"x 4" square. After Pinteresting some ideas, a scarf is in the works and a future picture may be posted! (no promises, tho).


4. Remind yourself it's for your baby. It has been very easy so far for me to worry, which leads to stressing, which is the opposite of what I should be doing! I am constantly reminding myself that this is what's best and I can't change the circumstances, so worrying will get me nowhere. Every minute that I'm laid back and resting, I'm keeping Charlotte healthier and growing. It may seem like a long stretch now, but it will be so worth it in the end.


And that's all I've got for now, thanks so much for reading, and please let me know if you have any other bed rest tips to keep me sane!

Time for Some Sparkle

A few days ago, I ended up going into the ER after work to have some concerns of mine checked out. Everything with baby looked great, but there are some complications with this pregnancy that need to be looked into further. I have a doctors appointment this week, and when I find out more I'll be sure  to share!

While it was a stressful experience, something good did come out of it- we found out through another ultrasound that we are definitely having a little girl!! The minute the ultrasound tech confirmed that Henry was getting a sister, I immediately started picturing tutu's and flower headbands. Me and mom cannot wait to buy everything sparkly in site, and the nursery planning has officially begun! 

If you look carefully at the sideways photo of her face, you can see her little smirk! I am so in love already, and cannot wait to meet her. We've been tossing around names, and we are pretty set on Charlotte Elizabeth. Carl wasn't sold at first, but after me calling her Charlotte for months I think it's sticking. 

At 27 weeks, I feel way behind that all we have for little girl is literally one outfit that mom bought (it says "best little sister" and I'm obsessed).  But then I realized, even if she has to wear some of Henry's old clothes (the containers and containers of outfits that we have) she will survive. I may just have to accept that she can't be covered in glitter and pink 24/7... maybe. 

I am, however, so glad to have the green light on nursery planning! With this pregnancy's complications, I could end up needing a C-section before 40 weeks, which makes the time crunch even more stressful. Guess it's a good thing I've been planning a girl's nursery since I was pregnant with Henry! Some of my inspiration for her shabby-chic, vintage-inspired nursery: 

Curtain & other Inspiration here / Floral Letter in Frame Tutorial / Gorgeous Rug found here

I absolutely cannot wait to get out and shop, and start all of the projects I have lined up! If anyone has ideas for a vintage/shabby-chic nursery they'd like to share, please do! I can never get enough flowers, sparkle, and vintage embellishments.